Debating the CPEC

This refers to the letter, ‘The CPRC debate’ (June 17) by Abdul Majeed. I tend to differ with the views expressed by the writer. The simple question is: if the project will not be of any benefit to both the counties why would China alone invest $46 billion in it? The fact is that this project has both strategic and economic interests for both the countries. In the larger perspective the Gwadar Port will not only give China access to the Indian Ocean but, being in close proximity to the Persian Gulf, China will have greater access to major oceans.

The very fact that the Gwadar Port can handle 400         million tons of cargo per annum is one major advantage that cannot be matched by the Chabahar port. Additionally the sea distance covered by Chinese ships will reduce from the present 10,000 kms to around 2500 kms through the CPEC route. This factor alone will benefit the Chinese billions of dollars which will further enhance their economic strength of which the US is weary. Even Pakistan’s trade and commercial gains will increase manifold. The CPEC is probably the only solid and economically viable project initiated by the government. With the Pakistan Army’s unequivocal support for its security, there is no reason why this project should not be completed as planned. The government would do well to clearly disclose all the details of the project supported by facts and figures to educate and alley fears of the common Pakistani.

Group Captain (r) Saeed Nawaz Khan

Rawalpindi